Research Fellow in Environmental Archaeology(UK Visa Sponsorship Available)

Job Description

About Us

The UCL Institute of Archaeology is one of the world’s leading academic departments in archaeology, with over 60 permanent staff conducting high-quality research across five continents. The Institute has a long-standing reputation in environmental archaeology and archaeological science, supported by extensive, state-of-the-art laboratory facilities.

Several members of the Institute are recognised experts in South American archaeology, particularly in the Amazon basin, making it a vibrant centre for research in tropical environments and human-environment interactions.

About the Role

We are seeking a Research Fellow to join the UKRI-funded Voices of Indigenous Amazonia Project, led by Dr Manuel Arroyo-Kalin. The project focuses on environmental archaeological research in the northwestern Brazilian Amazon, undertaken in collaboration with Brazilian scientists, UK partners, and indigenous communities.

The postholder will contribute their expertise to field- and laboratory-based research investigating past human-environment relationships in Amazonia. The role includes active participation in scientific expeditions, data analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

The position is full-time and will commence on 1 March 2026, running until 30 November 2027. Applications from candidates seeking part-time hours will also be considered.

About You

Essential Criteria:

A PhD (or near completion within six months) in Archaeology or a closely related field (e.g., Earth Sciences, Geography, Palaeoecology, or Human Ecology) involving substantial field and laboratory research.

Strong laboratory skills, with the ability to work across multiple sub-disciplines within environmental archaeology, archaeological science, or palaeoecology.

Proven experience and knowledge of South American lowland archaeology, palaeoecology, or human ecology.

Willingness and ability to travel nationally and internationally, including participation in fieldwork in the Amazon basin.

Note:
Candidates who have not yet been awarded their PhD will be appointed as Research Assistant (Grade 6B, £39,148–£41,833). Upon PhD award, promotion to Grade 7 will be backdated to the date of final thesis submission.

Application Requirements

Applicants should submit:

• A full CV (including academic history, employment record, publication list, and contact details of two referees, one being the current or most recent line manager).
• A cover letter addressing how they meet each essential and desirable criterion in the person specification.
• Evidence of qualifications.
• Apply via the UCL online application system by clicking Apply Now on the job listing.

This role meets eligibility criteria for a Skilled Worker visa or Global Talent visa under UKVI regulations. UCL welcomes applications from international candidates requiring a visa.

What We Offer

• UCL offers a range of excellent staff benefits, including:
• 41 days of annual leave (27 days leave, 8 bank holidays, 6 closure days)
• Option to purchase up to 5 additional leave days
• Defined benefit CARE pension scheme
• Cycle to Work and season ticket loan schemes
• On-site nursery and gym facilities
• Enhanced parental pay (maternity, paternity, adoption)
• Employee Assistance Programme and staff wellbeing services
• Discounted medical insurance

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

At UCL, we believe that diversity drives creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, fairness, and inclusivity—striving to create a community where everyone belongs.

We particularly encourage applications from groups underrepresented in our workforce, including individuals from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, LGBTQI+ individuals, and, for senior roles, women.

The Institute of Archaeology holds an Athena SWAN Bronze Award in recognition of its commitment to advancing gender equality.